COMMUNITY groups are being urged to apply for their share of a £2m funding pot after Glasgow received an extension for applications.

The Scottish Government's Community Choices Fund will allow groups and clubs across the country that chance to receive a cash boost of up to £100,000.

Initially the deadline for applications was set at July 29, however councillors argued most community groups were not meeting at that time and they would miss their chance at funding.

Norman Macleod, SNP councillor for Pollokshields, wrote to Holyrood's communities minister to ask for an extension.

Glasgow City Council's Labour administration also wrote to the Government to request an extension.

Kevin Stewart MSP, Minister for Local Government and Housing, agreed to grant the city an extension until August 31.

Mr MacLeod said: "I have advised all my SNP colleagues to tell their local community groups that the extension has been made.

"That was not a convenient time to make that a deadline as the Glasgow Fayre is on and the council is not even meeting - it is in recess.

"Many of the community councils and groups have July off also.

"I'm delighted that groups will now have more time to apply."

Labour Councillor Soryia Siddique, executive member for communities and citizenship, said: “At our last full council meeting concern was expressed that local community groups could miss out on funding due to the unrealistic and impractical period for applications, during the summer when groups don’t meet as regularly.

"Any leeway to the closing date will give local groups and third sector organisations a chance to make sure that Glasgow communities receive a fair share of the fund.”

Groups can apply a maximum of £100,000, and although there is no minimum amount, regulations state bids for £20,000 at least will be given preference.

For details visit www.gov.scot/Topics/People/engage/CommunityChoicesFund